Draft Q&A on DEP rooftop debris cleanup program, n.d.

NYC 9/11 Public Portal Document

cleaning. If- and only if - asbestos is found during testing, you may ask that your residence be professionally cleaned. The deadline for the request is October 2,2002.

Eligibility: Residents living in the area south of Canal, Allen, and Pike Streets whose homes accumulated dust and debris from the collapse of the WTC can request cleaning and/or testing.

[Insert quote from reputable source about purpose and goal of this program]

For more information or to request assistance, visit EPA’s Web site or call the cleanup hotline at 1-877-796-5471.

[2. J keep hearing about HEPA filters. All my neighbors are purchasing one. What is it and should I buy one?

A. If your home has accumulated dust and debris from the WTC collapse, it’s probably a good idea to purchase a HEPA (high efficiency particulate air) filter - especially because FEMA will reimburse your purchase (just call 1-800-462-9029).

HEPA is a special filter that is attached to a vacuum cleaner. A vacuum with a HEPA filter captures tiny particles of dust that would pass through a regular vacuum. For instance, asbestos fibers, which can be very small, are trapped by the HEPA filter so they are not re-suspended in the air.

Q. I called FEMA about a question regarding air quality, and they referred me to EPA who ultimately referred me to NYC DEP. I’m a little confused about who is responsible for what. Do you have any guidance?

A. No doubt it can be confusing dealing with city, state, and federal agencies - especially with questions regarding 9-11. Here’s a guide of commonly referred to agencies and their responsibilities regarding air quality, cleanup, health, mental health, and reimbursement. o American Red Cross (ARC) - Mental health therapy; replacement reimbursement (Let’s check with our friends at EPA) o Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) - Interior residential cleanup; indoor air sampling o New York City Department of Environmental Protection (NYC DEP) - Air quality; exterior building cleanup o New York Police Department (NYPD) - Security issues o New York State Department of Health (NYS DOH) - Health and mental health issues; health services available to those affected by WTC collapse; information on mold o Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) - Reimbursement for purchase of a HEPA filter vacuum, air conditioners, and air purifiers [QUESTION: Who else should be included here?]

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